Young Thug has transformed dental jewelry into high art, making his grillz one of the most recognizable style statements in modern hip-hop. His bold approach to mouth jewelry has inspired countless fans and artists to embrace custom grillz as essential fashion accessories. If you've ever wondered about the rapper's iconic dental pieces, their cost, or how to get a similar look, you're in the right place.
š Young Thug's Signature Grillz Style
Young Thug's grillz collection represents some of the most extravagant dental jewelry in hip-hop history. The Atlanta rapper consistently sports full diamond-encrusted sets that cover both his upper and lower teeth, creating a dazzling effect that's become synonymous with his brand. His pieces typically feature high-quality VVS or VS diamonds set in either white gold or platinum bases.
What sets Young Thug's grillz apart is the attention to detail and craftsmanship. Unlike simpler designs, his pieces often incorporate intricate diamond patterns, sometimes featuring baguette-cut diamonds alongside traditional round stones. The rapper has been spotted wearing everything from classic fully iced-out sets to more artistic designs that showcase his unique fashion sensibility.
His influence on grillz culture extends beyond just wearing them. Young Thug has made it fashionable to treat dental jewelry as a permanent part of your look rather than an occasional accessory. He's been photographed wearing his grillz everywhere from red carpet events to casual studio sessions, normalizing luxury mouth jewelry in mainstream culture.
š The Jewelers Behind the Shine
Young Thug works with some of the most prestigious jewelers in the hip-hop industry. TV Johnny, one of Atlanta's premier jewelers, has created multiple pieces for the rapper. TV Johnny is known for his meticulous craftsmanship and ability to bring artists' most ambitious jewelry visions to life, making him a go-to choice for high-profile clients.
Another notable jeweler associated with Young Thug's collection is Icebox, the famous Atlanta-based jewelry store that has serviced numerous hip-hop artists. Icebox specializes in custom diamond grillz and has built a reputation for creating show-stopping pieces that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs.
These jewelers use advanced techniques to ensure the grillz fit perfectly and showcase the diamonds to maximum effect. The process involves taking precise dental impressions, creating custom molds, and hand-setting each diamond individually. This level of craftsmanship explains why authentic pieces similar to Young Thug's command premium prices.
š° Price Breakdown: What Young Thug's Grillz Cost
Young Thug's grillz collection represents a significant investment, with individual sets ranging from $25,000 to over $100,000 depending on the specific design and diamond quality. The price variation depends on several factors including the number of teeth covered, diamond clarity and carat weight, and the precious metal used for the base.
A basic full-set diamond grillz similar to Young Thug's style, featuring lower-grade diamonds and gold plating, might start around $5,000 to $10,000 from reputable jewelers. However, to achieve the authentic brilliance and quality seen in the rapper's pieces, you're looking at investments of $20,000 or more. His most elaborate sets, featuring high-clarity VVS diamonds and intricate designs, easily exceed six figures.
The precious metal base also significantly impacts cost. Yellow gold grillz are typically less expensive than white gold or platinum options. Young Thug often opts for white gold or platinum bases because they complement the diamonds better and provide superior durability. Platinum pieces command the highest prices due to the metal's rarity and weight.
Beyond the initial purchase, maintaining these pieces requires periodic professional cleaning and occasional repairs. Diamond settings can loosen over time, and the metal may need polishing to maintain that fresh shine. Budget an additional few hundred dollars annually for proper maintenance if you invest in high-end grillz.
šØ Different Grillz Styles Young Thug Has Worn
Throughout his career, Young Thug has showcased various grillz styles, each reflecting different aspects of his evolving aesthetic. His fully iced-out sets remain his most iconic look, with diamonds covering every visible surface of his teeth. This maximalist approach creates an unforgettable visual impact that photographs exceptionally well.
The rapper has also been seen wearing open-face grillz, which feature diamonds set around the borders of each tooth while leaving the center exposed. This style offers a slightly more subtle appearance while still maintaining significant sparkle. Open-face designs are often more comfortable for extended wear and allow for easier eating and drinking.
Young Thug occasionally sports fang-style grillz that extend his canine teeth, creating a vampiric effect that adds edge to his look. These pieces demonstrate how grillz can be sculptural and artistic, going beyond simple tooth covers to create entirely new dental silhouettes. Similar to the bold statements made by other artists like Future's distinctive grillz collection, Young Thug's fang pieces showcase personality and creative vision.
He's also experimented with colored diamond accents, incorporating yellow, blue, or pink diamonds into predominantly white diamond sets. These colored stones add depth and visual interest, creating more complex designs that catch light from multiple angles. Color accents allow for personal expression while maintaining the luxury aesthetic.
āØ How to Get Young Thug-Inspired Grillz
Getting grillz similar to Young Thug's style starts with finding a reputable jeweler who specializes in custom dental jewelry. Look for jewelers with portfolios showcasing high-end hip-hop pieces and positive reviews from previous clients. Major cities typically have established grillz specialists, but many reputable jewelers also work with clients remotely through mail-in impression kits.
The process begins with a dental impression, which the jeweler uses to create a precise mold of your teeth. Some jewelers require in-person visits for this step, while others provide impression kits you can use at home. Professional impressions typically yield better results, ensuring your grillz fit comfortably and securely without causing dental issues.
Next, you'll discuss design preferences with your jeweler. Specify whether you want a full set or partial grillz, the type of metal base, and your diamond preferences. Be clear about your budget upfront, as jewelers can adjust designs to match different price points. Consider starting with a single arch (top or bottom teeth only) if you're new to wearing grillz or working with a limited budget.
Diamond quality significantly affects both appearance and price. VVS diamonds offer exceptional clarity similar to what Young Thug wears, but VS or SI diamonds can still look impressive at lower price points. Discuss the trade-offs with your jeweler, and ask to see samples of different diamond grades under various lighting conditions before making your decision.
Production time varies but typically ranges from three to six weeks for custom pieces. High-end jewelers with busy schedules may require longer wait times. Once your grillz arrive, schedule a fitting appointment to ensure proper fit and make any necessary adjustments. Quality jewelers stand behind their work and will modify pieces until you're completely satisfied.
š„ The Cultural Impact of Young Thug's Grillz
Young Thug's embrace of elaborate grillz has helped elevate dental jewelry from niche hip-hop accessory to mainstream fashion statement. His consistent wearing of high-end pieces in all contexts, from music videos to fashion week events, has normalized grillz as legitimate luxury items worthy of serious investment. This cultural shift has opened doors for grillz to be featured in high fashion editorials and on international runways.
The rapper's influence extends to how younger generations view self-expression through jewelry. His bold choices have encouraged fans to see grillz not just as status symbols but as wearable art that reflects personal style and creativity. This perspective has led to increased demand for custom designs that push creative boundaries beyond traditional styles.
Young Thug's impact parallels the influence of other style-forward artists who've made grillz central to their image. Artists like Lil Uzi Vert have similarly elevated grillz culture with their own distinctive approaches to dental jewelry, creating a new generation of hip-hop artists for whom grillz are non-negotiable style essentials.
Fashion designers and luxury brands have taken notice of this trend, with some incorporating grillz-inspired elements into jewelry collections and runway shows. Young Thug himself has collaborated with fashion houses, bringing his grillz aesthetic into high fashion contexts and further legitimizing dental jewelry as a serious fashion category.
ā ļø Important Considerations Before Getting Grillz
Before investing in Young Thug-style grillz, consult with your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for dental jewelry. Grillz should never be worn over damaged teeth, active cavities, or inflamed gums. Pre-existing dental issues need resolution before you get fitted for grillz to avoid complications.
Understand that permanent grillz (which are bonded to teeth) differ significantly from removable pieces. Young Thug primarily wears removable grillz, which offer flexibility and easier maintenance. Permanent options require more commitment and can potentially damage tooth enamel if not properly installed by a qualified dental professional.
Proper hygiene becomes even more critical when wearing grillz regularly. Remove your grillz before eating when possible, and clean both the pieces and your natural teeth thoroughly afterward. Bacteria can accumulate between grillz and teeth, potentially causing decay or gum disease if hygiene practices are neglected. Invest in a quality jewelry cleaning solution and soft brush specifically for your grillz.
Be realistic about your budget and avoid financing options with predatory terms. Quality grillz represent significant investments, and rushing into purchases you can't comfortably afford leads to financial stress. Consider starting with a more modest design and upgrading later as your budget allows. Remember that understanding the craftsmanship behind grillz production can help you make more informed purchasing decisions.
Finally, research your jeweler thoroughly before committing. Request references, examine their portfolio carefully, and read reviews from multiple sources. Avoid jewelers who pressure you into quick decisions or can't provide clear information about their materials and processes. Reputable professionals welcome questions and prioritize customer satisfaction over quick sales.
š Caring for Your Investment
Maintaining diamond grillz requires consistent care to preserve their appearance and structural integrity. Remove your grillz before sleeping to prevent accidental damage and give your teeth and gums a break. Store them in a protective case lined with soft material to prevent scratches and diamond damage when not wearing them.
Clean your grillz daily using warm water and mild soap or a specialized jewelry cleaning solution. Gently brush all surfaces with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to areas where diamonds meet metal settings. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners that can damage precious metals and loosen diamond settings.
Schedule professional cleanings with your jeweler every six months to maintain optimal condition. Professionals can inspect diamond settings, tighten any loose stones, and polish the metal to restore its original luster. These maintenance visits help identify potential issues before they become expensive problems requiring extensive repairs.
When wearing your grillz, avoid biting hard foods or objects that could crack diamonds or bend the metal base. Remove them before engaging in contact sports or activities where facial impact is possible. Even high-quality grillz can sustain damage from excessive force, and repairs on diamond pieces can be costly.
Young Thug's grillz have become as iconic as his music, representing a bold approach to personal style that has influenced hip-hop culture worldwide. Whether you're considering investing in your own custom set or simply appreciate the artistry behind these dazzling pieces, understanding the craftsmanship, cost, and care involved helps you appreciate why these dental accessories have become such powerful symbols of success and self-expression. Quality grillz represent more than just jewelry; they're wearable statements of individuality that, when properly maintained, can last for years while maintaining their brilliant shine and turning heads wherever you go.
